There’s no doubt about it, undergoing an interview is one of the most nerve-wracking experiences out there. It seems that the more you want that dream job, the more nervous you are when it comes to entering the place of work and preparing to be grilled about your suitability to the role.
Before any interview, however, you can take a few simple steps to increase your chances of a positive job offer, and maximise your confidence levels. By undertaking some preparation beforehand, you will be better placed to manage any last-minute nerves, and make sure that you shine on the day.
The following five things are the essential list you will need for any interview, to give you the best possible opportunity of securing your ideal role.
Knowledge
This may seem fairly obvious, but prior to entering any interview situation you need to have a ready store of knowledge about the position. This includes a full working understanding of the role, the organisation providing employment, and what may be expected of you both within the interview itself, and then once you have accepted the offer. Make sure you do the following before the interview, leaving yourself enough time to allow the information to be committed to memory:
Research the firm. Go online and read up as much as possible about the organisation, including press releases, their company website, any blogs they may have, their mission statement, and values. Print off key facts which you may be able to weave into your interview responses, to demonstrate keenness and insight into the firm. The more obscure data you can access and take in, the better; interviewers will be more likely to place a role when they sense that the interviewee knows and understands the company ethos, and is excited at the prospect of working there.
It's surprising how many people walk into interviews without having undertaken the necessary level of preparation for the job. Keep crib sheets with you to refer to if required, distilling the detail to offer swift prompts and reminders, and demonstrate your ability to research, learn and absorb some of the finer details.
Directions
Again, this may be simple but the last thing you need when you head for the interview destination is to lose your way and compromise punctuality. If you’re using public transport, plan ahead with the specific routes you need to take, and the timetable for buses or trains. If you’re driving, make sure you have accurate GPS directions, and take a look on Google Maps or similar to gain familiarity with the route. Check fuel levels, and allow sufficient time to combat commuter times, heavy traffic congestion, or road traffic accidents. Arriving late is perhaps the worst possible scenario you could experience – make sure it doesn’t happen through effective pre-planning.
Equipment
Take a business-like briefcase or folder, a pencil and pen (pencils don’t run out!), and any crib sheets which you may have prepared beforehand. Print out a few copies of your CV and include them, in plastic wallets. You can also include copies of any presentation or notes which you have been asked for when you were invited to the interview. All of this works towards giving a great first impression as an organised, considerate potential employee.
Personal items
Whether you are male or female, part of that first impression comes down to personal appearance. In addition to wearing smart clothes for the interview, think through potential scenarios and consider what you may need to hand. A downpour of rain, stressful journey or nerves may all lead to a dishevelled appearance. Pack make up, a hairbrush, hand wipes, breath freshener and any other cosmetic items which may support you to take five minutes before making an entrance to ensure you’re looking great.
Confidence
This is your most powerful tool in any interview. Keep your confidence high by preparing well, and you’ll stand upright, give a firm handshake, and have the best possible opportunity of securing the position. With confidence and a decent smile, you’ll go a long way towards coming across in the best possible light, and walk away safe in the knowledge that you did everything within your power to shine.